Air India Crash Investigation Progresses
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India has announced that a draft report on the Air India crash, which resulted in 260 fatalities, is expected to be finalized by October. The crash occurred last June when a Boeing 787 Dreamliner headed to London crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport.
Investigation Details
According to an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court, the AAIB is currently in the 'analysis phase' of their investigation, which is anticipated to conclude in approximately six weeks. However, the affidavit did not specify when the report would be publicly released or provide details on the crash findings.
The tragic incident took place on 12 June 2025. The aircraft crashed approximately 6 kilometers from the airport into a building used as accommodation for doctors at a medical college, leading to an explosion. The crash claimed the lives of 241 people on the plane and 19 on the ground, leaving only one survivor, Viswashkumar Ramesh from Leicester.
Investigation Steps and Findings
The AAIB initiated their investigation shortly after the crash, releasing a preliminary report a month later. On the crash's first anniversary, they reported 'significant progress' in evidence analysis but did not provide extensive details. The affidavit indicates that out of 66 required investigatory steps, 49 have been completed. These steps include examining the crash site and wreckage, gathering evidence including flight recorders, and reviewing records pertinent to the crew's medical history and training.
A review of the organizational culture, human factors, and safety practices was also conducted. A psychological autopsy, which involves assessing the psychological state of the crew members, was part of the investigation, and the psychologist's final report has been received.
Preliminary Report Insights
The initial report, published last July, indicated that moments after takeoff, fuel control switches were unexpectedly moved to the 'cut-off' position, causing the engines to lose power. Cockpit audio recordings captured one pilot questioning another about the switch movement, with the latter denying responsibility. The report did not clarify which pilot made the statements.
This ambiguity fueled speculation about pilot involvement in the crash, particularly focusing on the senior pilot, Capt Sumeet Sabharwal. The speculation prompted a backlash from Sabharwal's father and pilots' associations, and the AAIB criticized the media coverage. The affidavit noted that media narratives attributing blame to the pilots have led some witnesses to become less forthcoming.
Source: Original Article
